How to Make Brushing Fun For Kids

So fall is officially here, which means cookies, candy corn, and pumpkin-spice everything. It’s an exciting sugar-packed time of year for your little ones, but trick or treating isn’t the only thing worth celebrating—October is National Dental Hygiene month!

It’s no secret that oral health is closely linked to overall health, we won’t lecture you there. But now more than ever is time to teach your little ones how to fight off those cavity-causing sugar monsters on their teeth.

In honor of Halloween and National Dental Hygiene Month, here are 5 ways to make brushing fun for your kiddos

2 Minutes dance party

As every parent knows, teaching kids the importance of daily flossing and brushing is no easy task. Our SLO Smiles dentists recommend making brushing a fun event your child will look forward to. Don’t just set a timer—crank up your child’s favorite song and have a dance party with the whole family.

Tell a story

Does your kiddo have a character they love? Many children’s shows and movies have special stories about brushing. Read or watch them together, and your child will learn that their favorite superhero brushes their teeth too.

Let your child choose their tools

When your child gets to choose their toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss, they’ll feel more excited to use them. Give your little ones some age-appropriate options (our dentists recommend ones that are ADA approved). Not only does choosing colorful brushes and yummy flavors make brushing more fun, but it also empowers your child to care for their oral health.

Make brushing a game

A time tested trick from our own families here at SLO Smiles: make brushing a game! Whether it’s racing your kid to the bathroom, choosing animals or monsters to chase with a toothbrush, or pretending to clean the mouths of all your child’s favorite toys, the sillier you get, the more excited they’ll be when it comes time to polish their pearly whites.

Reward good brushing

What gets your child excited? If it’s movies and books, let your child pick their bedtime story or show. If it’s stickers, make a brushing chart and let them add one each morning and night. Maybe it’s as simple as giving them a high five or a hug and praising them for their healthy smile.

Here at SLO Smiles, our dentists are parents too. Teaching little ones the importance of oral health isn’t always easy, but with patience and a few tricks, your child will create healthy habits in no time.

New patients are always welcome at SLO Smiles. If you’re looking for a family-friendly atmosphere designed with your utmost comfort in mind, schedule an appointment today at (805) 541-0550.

Our SLO Smiles family would be honored to care for your family.